Malik-Lowe Hails AMALI as a Catalyst for Transformative African Leadership

The Mayor of Banjul, Rohey Malik-Lowe, has lauded the African Mayoral Leadership Initiative (AMALI) as a powerful catalyst for transformative leadership across the continent, following the conclusion of the AMALI reunion in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Mayor Malik-Lowe described the intensive, year-long programme as a “transformative journey” that equipped her and fellow African leaders with advanced tools and strategies to deliver effectively on their legacy goals for their communities.

According to her, “AMALI stands as a powerful force for progress across our continent, supporting mayors and their teams by strengthening our capacity, developing our data leadership, and providing the framework to rigorously measure and monitor our key projects.”

Since its inception in 2023, the prestigious leadership initiative has brought together 44 mayors and governors from 17 African countries, fostering collaboration and innovation in governance. Mayor Malik-Lowe noted that she was honoured to share this enriching experience with her colleague, Mayor Bensoda of the Kanifing Municipality, describing their participation as a testament to The Gambia’s commitment to forward-looking leadership.

She extended her profound appreciation to the entire AMALI team and her fellow participants for what she called an “incredible period of collaboration and learning,” adding that the insights gained would greatly shape her leadership vision and policy delivery in Banjul.

Highlighting mentorship as a cornerstone of her AMALI experience, Mayor Malik-Lowe expressed special gratitude to her mentor, Dr. Awa Marie Coll-Seck, a former two-time Minister of Health in Senegal, renowned medical doctor, and expert in infectious diseases. She described Dr. Coll-Seck as “a beacon of guidance and inspiration,” noting her extensive contributions as Executive Director of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership and Director of Policy, Strategy, and Research at USAIDS.

Mayor Malik-Lowe emphasized that the AMALI experience has renewed her passion for public service and strengthened her resolve to serve the people of Banjul with greater dedication, innovation, and purpose.

“This experience has renewed my energy and sharpened my focus to continue serving you with dedication and vision. Onward, together!” she declared.